ALEC is an acronym for the American Legislative Exchange Council, an organization claiming to uphold Jeffersonian principles of free market, individual liberties, and less government. Skeptics view the group as a self-interested lobbyist group coupling corporation with politicians. ALEC's influence in North Carolina is linked to Republican successes within the last year.

Southern Durham Development Commission's contentious 751 South project proposes residential development near Jordan Lake's natural watershed. Commissioner Ellen Reckhow now stands alone in opposition to the plan since Becky Heron's resignation, the only other environmental supporter.